– Enea Bastianini’s future in MotoGP is currently uncertain, but the Italian makes no secret of the fact that he is intensively considering his sporting options: “It is pointless to say that you don’t think about the future.”
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“Of course you think about it, and we are looking for the best solution for us. We will see what comes out of it,” he remains reserved regarding his alternatives.
Contractually, the situation seems clear at first glance, but on closer inspection, it is flexible. Bastianini signed a 2+1-year contract with KTM two years ago, which basically binds him to the manufacturer until the end of 2028.
Will Bastianini use his exit clause?
At the same time, the agreement includes an exit clause that gives him room to maneuver. “I have a contract, let’s say, with KTM, but it is a contract that can be terminated,” he explains. He does not comment on possible financial details: “I cannot disclose details of my contract.”
Sportingly, the 26-year-old is currently in a phase of transition. He has not yet been able to build on his brilliant performances from the 2022 MotoGP season.
Back then, “La Bestia” caused a sensation on a Gresini Ducati, winning the very first race in Qatar and collecting a total of four victories. These successes paved his way into the Ducati factory team, for which he won three more races in two years.
The subsequent move to KTM and the Tech3 team has so far proven to be a challenge, especially in dealing with the motorcycle, which still does not fully suit him. However, individual progress during the current season suggests that the situation could stabilize.
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Photo series: The contract durations of the current MotoGP riders
At the same time, indications of a possible return to Gresini are increasing. The team with which Bastianini made his breakthrough is currently considered the most likely option.
Nevertheless, the Italian remains deliberately vague: “I am considering many things, and honestly, a surprise could happen.” Whether there is more behind this than just negotiation tactics remains unclear at present. The situation gains additional tension due to structural changes that have been hinted at in the paddock for some time.
KTM soon only with two bikes on the grid?
Because the Tech3 team is apparently facing a change of motorcycle manufacturer and could work with Honda in the future. In this process, KTM would lose two starting places and would have to reduce its current rider lineup. Bastianini is considered one of the candidates for a possible departure.
The second potential change at KTM is also the subject of speculation. Because Maverick Vinales and/or Brad Binder are also on the chopping block if it is confirmed that Fabio Di Giannantonio is pushing for a place in the factory team. Alex Marquez is already set as a new signing for 2027 there.
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This leaves Bastianini as a key figure in the rider carousel. Talks are ongoing, and as he himself suggests, an outcome is possible that could “surprise.”
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